Patan Durbar Square | Lalitpur

Patan Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the center of Lalitpur (Patan), Nepal. It is one of the three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley, representing the pinnacle of Newari architecture and urban planning during the Malla period.

Visual Characteristics

The square is a high-density complex of red-brick temples, stone monoliths, and palaces. It is characterized by the "Newari style," featuring tiered pagoda roofs, intricate dark wood carvings (tundals), and gilded metalwork. The ground is paved with traditional red bricks. The eastern side is dominated by the massive royal palace complex, while the western side features a high concentration of freestanding temples of varying scales.

Architectural Style & Materials

Newari Pagoda: Multiple tiered roofs covered in clay tiles (jhingati), supported by carved wooden struts.

Shikhara: Stone temples built in the North Indian style, notably the Krishna Mandir.

Materials: Red brick (ma-apa), carved Sal wood, brass, and gold leaf.

Hitis: Sunken stone water conduits, such as the Tusha Hiti, featuring exquisite stone carvings of deities.

Historical Origin

The square served as the royal seat of the Malla Kings of Patan. While the site has roots dating back to the Licchavi period (3rd–9th century), most existing structures were commissioned during the 16th and 17th centuries, particularly under King Siddhinarasimha Malla and King Srinivasa Malla. The 2015 earthquake caused significant damage, but the site has undergone extensive, high-fidelity reconstruction.

Key Highlights & Structures

Krishna Mandir: A three-story stone temple built in 1637. It is the only temple in Nepal featuring 21 gilded pinnacles and is constructed entirely of stone in the Shikhara style.

Patan Museum: Housed in the Keshav Narayan Chowk, it is considered one of the best museums in South Asia, specializing in bronze statues and religious objects.

Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (Golden Temple): A unique Buddhist monastery located a short walk north of the square, famous for its gilded facade.

Mul Chowk & Sundari Chowk: The most historic courtyards within the palace complex, featuring the royal bath.

Access & Logistics

Location: Lalitpur, approximately 5km south of central Kathmandu.

Entry: Foreign nationals must pay an entry fee (approx. 1000 NPR). The ticket allows access to the Patan Museum.

Transport: Accessible via taxi or local buses from Ratna Park, Kathmandu.

Connectivity: 4G/LTE signals are strong. Free Wi-Fi is available within the museum and nearby cafes.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Cafes: Numerous rooftop restaurants surround the square, providing panoramic views.

Restrooms: Public facilities are located near the museum entrance and in larger cafes.

Shade: Limited in the main plaza; the museum courtyards and temple porches provide significant cooling and cover.

Best Time to Visit

The "Golden Hour" before sunset is optimal for photography, as the red brick and gilded pinnacles reflect the low light. The square is a living heritage site; visiting during festivals like Krishna Janmashtami provides a view of the square in its full religious context.

Nearby Landmarks

Mahaboudha Temple: 0.5km East (The Temple of a Thousand Buddhas).

Rudravarna Mahavihar: 0.4km South.

Kumbheshwor Temple: 0.6km North (A rare five-tiered pagoda).

Patan Industrial Estate: 1.5km South (For traditional handicrafts).